Is Your Elderly Loved One Struggling at Home?

After spending time with your loved ones, you may notice small but telling changes. These signs can indicate that day-to-day tasks are becoming more challenging or that they may need a little extra support. Acting on these signs early can make a real difference, helping to maintain their independence, safety, and overall quality of life while ensuring they continue to thrive at home.

Physical and Behavioural Indicators

1. Neglect of personal hygiene: Are they wearing inappropriate clothing, neglecting grooming, or skipping regular bathing? These changes might signal challenges in managing personal care.

2. Weight loss or poor nutrition: Are they losing weight unexpectedly or struggling to prepare meals? This could indicate poor eating habits or forgotten meals.

3. Mobility issues: Is walking or moving around becoming difficult? Perhaps they are at a greater risk of falls or accidents.

4. Frequent accidents: Have they experienced minor falls, trips, or bruises? These incidents can indicate an unsafe living environment or reduced physical strength.

Dementia touches the lives of millions, including families in the Weston-super-Mare area. Recognising the signs early allows your loved one to receive the right support, helping them continue to live comfortably and confidently at home.

Key Symptoms to Watch For

According to the NHS, dementia often begins subtly, but the symptoms can progress over time. Early signs include:

• Struggling to find the right words or maintain conversations.
• Losing track of time, places, or recent events.
• Difficulty with decision-making or routine tasks.
• Withdrawal from social interactions due to frustration or confusion.

Causes and Contributing Factors

Dementia is caused by brain cell damage, often linked to conditions like Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia. Contributing factors include:

• Age and genetics: These are primary risk factors.
• Lifestyle choices: Poor sleep, limited mental stimulation, and alcohol misuse can increase the likelihood of developing dementia.
• Underlying conditions: Diseases such as Parkinson’s or Huntington’s can also contribute.

Progression Through Stages

1. Early stage (mild): Subtle changes, such as forgetfulness, are common, but most individuals remain largely independent.

2. Middle stage (moderate): Memory lapses and challenges with routine tasks become more apparent, often requiring family support.

Late stage (severe): Full-time care becomes essential, as individuals may lose the ability to recognise loved ones or manage personal needs.

At Home Instead Weston Super Mare, we offer a personalised approach to care, allowing your loved ones to remain in their own homes while receiving the help they need.

Benefits of Home Care in Weston Super Mare

1. Familiar surroundings: Staying in their home provides comfort and stability, surrounded by the familiar sights of Weston Super Mare.

2. Tailored care plans: Each individual has unique needs, and we customise support to fit their circumstances perfectly.

3. Enhanced well-being: Through companionship and regular visits, we help reduce isolation and support emotional health.

Services We Provide

1. Personal care: Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming to maintain dignity and comfort.

2. Meal preparation: Ensuring your loved ones receive nutritious, home-cooked meals regularly.

3. Companionship: Friendly visits to brighten their day and provide emotional support.

4. Medication assistance: Keeping track of prescriptions and ensuring they’re taken on time.

Specialised dementia care: For those living with dementia, our trained care professionals provide tailored, understanding support.